Consumer Protection News

Red Flags Rule

The Red Flags Rule is an anti-fraud regulation, requiring “creditors” and “financial institutions” with covered accounts to implement programs to identify, detect, and respond to the warning signs, or “red flags,” that could indicate identity theft. FACTA’s definition of “creditor” includes any entity that regularly extends or renews credit – or arranges for others to do so – and includes all entities that regularly permit deferred payments for goods or services. The FTC’s Red Flags Web site, www.ftc.gov/redflagsrule, offers resources to help businesses understand the Rule.

Report Offers First Large-Scale Look at Child ID Theft

Teach children to be web smart through examples found in NetCetera: Chatting With Kids About Being Online.

Kids and parents have many ways of socializing and communicating online, but they come with certain risks. This guide encourages parents to reduce the risks by talking to kids about how they communicate – online and off – and helping kids engage in conduct they can be proud of. Net Cetera covers what parents need to know, where to go for more information, and issues to raise with kids about living their lives online. Click here to download a copy of the guide. http://onguardonline.gov/topics/protect-kids-online

Avoid Falling For A Business Opportunity Scam

It’s the American dream to own your business; especially during tough economic times. Although many achieve this dream, others run into financial ruin by falling prey to scams claiming that substantial profits can be attained. more>>Watch this video for an inside look.

Worried about mortgage foreclosure on your home?

A Statewide effort called Florida Attorneys SavingHomes has launched a toll-free hotline (866-607-2187) and will take calls from 8 a.m.through 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. Callers who fear that they soon won't be able to make their mortgage payments or who have already missed payments but are not yet in foreclosure are urged to call.

Agency partnerships make an impact

Pinellas County Consumer Protection partnered with the Federal Trade Commission and other area agencies on Operation Tele-Phoney, a recent telemarketing fraud sweep. As a result of the operation, numerous actions were taken which will greatly effect telemarketing fraud.